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The team from Charity Navigator, the nation's largest independent charity evaluator and leading donor advocate, shares their thoughts on emerging nonprofit-sector issues and offers tips to better inform your intelligent giving decisions.

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Charity Navigator’s Guide to International Youth Day

On Saturday, August 12, many will observe International Youth Day. The United Nations designated this day in 1999 based upon a recommendation from the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth. The day is intended to be a recognize the world’s youth as agents of tomorrow’s change.

While International Youth Day takes a different shape each year, the theme for this year’s event is young people’s inclusion in the peace and security agenda. The UN understands that peace and security are essential to the success of its 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, and that youth inclusion in the process will lead to a more peaceful future. In honor of International Youth Day, Charity Navigator is highlighting 4 highly-rated charities empowering youth to be successful, take part in our modern peace process, and stand up to be the leaders of tomorrow.

Seeds of Peace seeks to inspire and cultivate new generations of global leaders in communities divided by conflict. The program has more than 6,500 alumni spread globally throughout the Middle East, South Asia, Europe, and the United States. There are now more than 40 peacebuilding initiatives being staffed by Seeds of Peace graduates. Through its various programs, the charity works to develop leaders to be confident agents of change.

International Youth Foundation has worked for more than 25 years to invest in young people and empower them to be successful citizens, employees, entrepreneurs, and change-makers. They envision a world “where all young people achieve their full potential and shape the future with power and confidence.” They provide resources to help young people gain the skills they need to secure meaningful employment. And, through their YouthActionNet, help develop young people to be tomorrow’s leaders for lasting change.

Fresh Youth Initiatives aims to empower the New York City youth with access to the fewest resources to achieve their greatest potential. They believe in these children and their ability to shape our future. They work with kids to help them succeed in school, navigate difficult social transitions, and get on track to go on to college or a career. Ultimately, the seek a world where all young people “become meaningful contributors in their communities and lead fulfilled, productive lives.”

Public Citizens for Children and Youth works with children and families in the Philadelphia region to help them access the tools and resources they need to be stable today and successful tomorrow. Beyond addressing immediate needs and developing long-lasting solutions for individual families, the organization advocates on the local and national levels for the resources and legislation all children will need to grow into our next generation of leaders. They believe that we are all tasked with providing today’s youth with the fundamental building blocks they will need to be successful tomorrow.